Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this Easy Greek Rice recipe—a vibrant, flavor-packed side dish that's perfect for any meal. Made with fragrant long-grain white rice, sautéed onions, and garlic, this dish is infused with zesty lemon zest, fresh parsley, and earthy oregano for an authentic Greek-inspired taste. A quick 30-minute cook time makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while the use of vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if preferred) elevates the flavor to irresistible heights. Light, yet satisfying, this lemon rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table. Perfect for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts, it's a must-try for those seeking a fuss-free, healthy side dish bursting with bright, citrusy goodness.
Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains in the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes to slightly toast the rice.
Stir in the vegetable broth, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice, if desired.
Serve warm as a side dish or with your favorite Greek-inspired main course.
Calories |
604 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.1 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3073 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 76.8 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.8 g | 17% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.3 g | ||
| Protein | 8.6 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 117 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 4.4 mg | 24% | |
| Potassium | 676 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.